U.S. patent application number 15/050639 was filed with the patent office on 2016-07-21 for bullet proof blinds.
The applicant listed for this patent is John B. Adrain. Invention is credited to John B. Adrain.
Application Number | 20160209181 15/050639 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 56407617 |
Filed Date | 2016-07-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160209181 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Adrain; John B. |
July 21, 2016 |
BULLET PROOF BLINDS
Abstract
A blind system comprising a plurality of slats or a sheet having
a ballistic resistant material; a control system operably
configured to cause a change in state of the blind from an open
state to a protective closed state; and a sensing system operably
configured to detect a threatening event, wherein the sensing
system upon sensing the threatening event triggers the control
system to transition from the open state to the protective state
such that in the protective state, the blinds are adapted to be
resistant to penetration by high-speed ballistic objects such as
bullets.
Inventors: |
Adrain; John B.; (Frisco,
TX) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Adrain; John B. |
Frisco |
TX |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
56407617 |
Appl. No.: |
15/050639 |
Filed: |
February 23, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14476206 |
Sep 3, 2014 |
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15050639 |
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61873073 |
Sep 3, 2013 |
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62119510 |
Feb 23, 2015 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E06B 2009/6818 20130101;
E06B 9/386 20130101; E06B 9/32 20130101; E06B 9/40 20130101; F41H
5/0492 20130101; E06B 9/264 20130101; F41H 5/26 20130101; E06B 9/68
20130101; F41H 5/0457 20130101; F41H 5/013 20130101; F41H 5/026
20130101 |
International
Class: |
F41H 5/26 20060101
F41H005/26; F41H 5/04 20060101 F41H005/04; E06B 9/386 20060101
E06B009/386; E06B 9/68 20060101 E06B009/68; E06B 9/32 20060101
E06B009/32 |
Claims
1. An anti-ballistic window blind system configured for providing
in the window of a structure having an interior, said system
comprising: a valance configured to be mounted at a window; a blind
suspended from said valance and configured to be retracted toward
said valence to expose the window and deployed from said valence to
cover at least a portion of the window, said blind comprising a
plurality of slats, wherein each of said slats is comprised of a
non-metallic material having anti-ballistic properties, and wherein
said slats are configured to be rotatable when the blind is
deployed from said valence for allowing light from the window
through said blind; and mechanical components associated with said
valence for automatically deploying the blind into an
anti-ballistic protection mode for protecting the interior of the
structure from ballistic objects attempting to enter through the
window.
2. The blind system of claim 1, further comprising: a sensing
system for detecting threat data indicating a ballistic threat
exists; and a control system configured to receive said threat data
from said sensor, said control system operably configured to
trigger said mechanical components to automatically deploy said
blind into the anti-ballistic protection mode based on the received
threat data.
3. The blind system of claim 1, further comprising a panic button
configured to trigger said mechanical components to deploy said
blind into the anti-ballistic protection mode when actuated.
4. The blind system of claim 1, further comprising a remote
controller configured to wirelessly trigger said mechanical
components to deploy said blind into the anti-ballistic protection
mode when actuated.
5. The blind system according to claim 1, wherein said non-metallic
material having anti-ballistic properties includes a synthetic
fiber of high tensile strength.
6. The blind system according to claim 1, wherein said non-metallic
material having anti-ballistic properties includes a fabric treated
with boron.
7. The blind system according to claim 1, wherein said non-metallic
material having anti-ballistic properties includes an ultrahigh
molecular weight polyethylene.
8. The blind system according to claim 1, wherein said non-metallic
material having anti-ballistic properties includes a transparent
polycarbonate of high impact strength.
9. The blind system according to claim 1, wherein said blind is
provided between two panes of glass.
10. The blind system according to claim 1, wherein said structure
is a vehicle.
11. The blind system according to claim 1, wherein said slats are
held vertically.
12. The blind system according to claim 1, wherein said
automatically deploying the blind into an anti-ballistic protection
mode includes rotating said slats into a closed position.
13. The blind system according to claim 1, wherein said
automatically deploying the blind into an anti-ballistic protection
mode includes deploying a retracted blind.
14. The blind system according to claim 1, wherein said
automatically deploying the blind into an anti-ballistic protection
mode includes rotating said slats into a closed position if said
slats were in an open position, and/or automatically deploying the
blind if the blind was in a retracted position.
15. The blind system according to claim 1, wherein said slats are
treated to be aesthetically ornamental.
16. The blind system according to claim 1, wherein deploying the
blind into an anti-ballistic protection mode includes activating or
deactivating an electromagnet.
17. The blind system according to claim 1, wherein at least some of
said slats are configured to interlock with an adjacent one of said
slats in the anti-ballistic protection mode.
18. The blind system according to claim 1, wherein deploying the
blind into an anti-ballistic protection mode is activated by a home
security system.
19. An anti-ballistic window blind system configured for providing
in the window of a structure having an interior, said system
comprising: a mounting structure; a blind suspended from said
mounting structure and configured to be retracted toward said
mounting structure to expose the window and deployed from said
mounting structure to cover at least a portion of the window, said
blind comprising non-metallic material having anti-ballistic
properties; mechanical components associated with said mounting
structure for automatically deploying the blind into an
anti-ballistic protection mode for protecting the interior of the
structure from ballistic objects attempting to enter through the
window; a sensing system for detecting threat data indicating a
ballistic threat exists; and a control system configured to receive
said threat data from said sensor, said control system operably
configured to trigger said mechanical components to automatically
deploy said blind into the anti-ballistic protection mode based on
the received threat data.
20. The blind system of claim 19, further comprising a panic button
configured to trigger said mechanical components to deploy said
blind into the anti-ballistic protection mode when actuated.
21. The blind system according to claim 19, wherein said
non-metallic material having anti-ballistic properties includes a
fabric treated with boron.
22. The blind system according to claim 19, wherein said
non-metallic material having anti-ballistic properties includes an
ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene.
23. The blind system according to claim 19, wherein said
non-metallic material having anti-ballistic properties includes a
transparent polycarbonate of high impact strength.
24. The blind system according to claim 19, wherein said blind is
provided between two panes of glass.
25. The blind system according to claim 19, wherein said structure
is a vehicle.
26. The blind system according to claim 19, wherein said
automatically deploying the blind into an anti-ballistic protection
mode includes deploying a retracted blind from a ceiling or
roof.
27. The blind system according to claim 19, wherein deploying the
blind into an anti-ballistic protection mode includes activating or
deactivating an electromagnet.
28. The blind system according to claim 19, wherein said blind is
comprised of a contiguous panel or sheet of the anti-ballistic
material.
29. The blind system according to claim 19, wherein said blind is
comprised of an air bag provide between two panes of glass, and
wherein the blind is automatically deployed by inflating said air
bag.
30. The blind system according to claim 19, wherein said
non-metallic material having anti-ballistic properties includes a
synthetic fiber of high tensile strength.
31. An anti-ballistic window blind system configured for providing
in the window of a structure having an interior, said system
comprising: a valance configured to be mounted at a window; a blind
suspended from said valance and configured to be retracted toward
said valence to expose the window and deployed from said valence to
cover at least a portion of the window, said blind comprising a
plurality of slats, wherein each of said slats is comprised of a
non-metallic material having anti-ballistic properties, and wherein
said slats are configured to be rotatable when the blind is
deployed from said valence for allowing light from the window
through said blind; mechanical components associated with said
valence for automatically deploying the blind into an
anti-ballistic protection mode for protecting the interior of the
structure from ballistic objects attempting to enter through the
window, wherein said automatically deploying the blind into an
anti-ballistic protection mode includes rotating said slats into a
closed position if said slats were in an open position, and/or
automatically deploying the blind if the blind was in a retracted
position; a sensing system for detecting threat data indicating a
ballistic threat exists; a control system configured to receive
said threat data from said sensor, said control system operably
configured to trigger said mechanical components to automatically
deploy said blind into the anti-ballistic protection mode based on
the received threat data; and a user actuated device configured to
trigger said control system to deploy said blind into the
anti-ballistic protection mode when actuated.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 14/476,206 filed on Sep. 3, 2014, which claims
the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/873,073, filed
on Sep. 3, 2013, both incorporated herein by reference. This
application also claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application
No. 62/119,510 filed on Feb. 23, 2015, also incorporated herein by
reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Window blinds, such as venetian blinds, and vertical blinds
have found widespread use in residential and commercial
applications as window coverings because of their ability to
selectively vary the amount of light passing through a window,
glass door, skylight, or the like, by the varying of a plurality of
vanes, louvers or slats.
[0003] Current anti-ballastic protection systems in residential and
commercial applications such as armored doors and windows are
usually made of metal or a material containing at least one metal
plate, and thus having an extremely high weight. Some plastic
systems exist that have lower weight, but that are very flimsy and
weak, and thus would provide no protection from projectiles or
other forced entry into the dwelling.
[0004] It would be useful to utilize the widespread use of window
blinds to provide unauthorized entry protection to individuals and
organizations in residential, commercial, government, federal
building and mobile or any suitable application.
SUMMARY
[0005] The following presents a simplified summary in order to
provide a basic understanding of some example aspects described in
the detailed description.
[0006] Provided is a blind comprising material having
anti-ballistic properties to prevent penetration by a ballistic
projectile, such as a bullet.
[0007] In one aspect, a blind system is disclosed herein including
a control system operably configured to cause a change in state of
the blind from an open or retracted state to a protective state;
and a sensing system operably configured to detect a threatening
event, in which the sensing system upon sensing the threatening
event triggers the control system to transition to the protective
state.
[0008] In another aspect, a blind system is disclosed herein
including a plurality of slats having a ballistic resistant
material; a control system operably configured to cause a change in
state of the blind from an open state to a protective closed state;
and a sensing system operably configured to detect a threatening
event, wherein the sensing system upon sensing the threatening
event triggers the control system to transition from the open state
to the protective state such that in the protective state, the
blinds are adapted to be resistant to penetration by high-speed
ballistic objects.
[0009] In yet another aspect, a blind system is disclosed herein
including a blind suspended from a rail and a blind adjustment
system that is configured to transition the blinds from an open
state to a closed, protective state in which the blinds are adapted
to be resistant to penetration by high-speed ballistic objects.
[0010] In still another aspect, decorative blinds are provided
separate from blinds that provide ballistic protection, with the
ballistic blinds being provided in an undeployed state, being
deployed when a threatening situation is detected.
[0011] In still another aspect, an anti-ballistic window blind
system is provided that is configured for providing in the window
of a structure having an interior, the system comprising: a valance
configured to be mounted at a window; a blind suspended from the
valance and configured to be retracted toward the valence to expose
the window and deployed from the valence to cover at least a
portion of the window, the blind comprising a plurality of slats,
wherein each of the slats is comprised of a non-metallic material
having anti-ballistic properties, and wherein the slats are
configured to be rotatable when the blind is deployed from the
valence for allowing light from the window through the blind; and
mechanical components associated with the valence for automatically
deploying the blind into an anti-ballistic protection mode for
protecting the interior of the structure from ballistic objects
attempting to enter through the window.
[0012] In a further aspect, an anti-ballistic window blind system
is provided that is configured for providing in the window of a
structure having an interior, the system comprising: a mounting
structure; a blind suspended from the mounting structure and
configured to be retracted toward the mounting structure to expose
the window and deployed from the mounting structure to cover at
least a portion of the window, the blind comprising non-metallic
material having anti-ballistic properties; mechanical components
associated with the mounting structure for automatically deploying
the blind into an anti-ballistic protection mode for protecting the
interior of the structure from ballistic objects attempting to
enter through the window; a sensing system for detecting threat
data indicating a ballistic threat exists; and a control system
configured to receive the threat data from the sensor, the control
system operably configured to trigger the mechanical components to
automatically deploy the blind into the anti-ballistic protection
mode based on the received threat data.
[0013] In still another aspect, anti-ballistic window blind system
is provided that is configured for providing in the window of a
structure having an interior, the system comprising: a valance
configured to be mounted at a window; a blind suspended from the
valance and configured to be retracted toward the valence to expose
the window and deployed from the valence to cover at least a
portion of the window, the blind comprising a plurality of slats,
wherein each of the slats is comprised of a non-metallic material
having anti-ballistic properties, and wherein the slats are
configured to be rotatable when the blind is deployed from the
valence for allowing light from the window through the blind;
mechanical components associated with the valence for automatically
deploying the blind into an anti-ballistic protection mode for
protecting the interior of the structure from ballistic objects
attempting to enter through the window, wherein the automatically
deploying the blind into an anti-ballistic protection mode includes
rotating the slats into a closed position if the slats were in an
open position, and/or automatically deploying the blind if the
blind was in a retracted position; a sensing system for detecting
threat data indicating a ballistic threat exists; a control system
configured to receive the threat data from the sensor, the control
system operably configured to trigger the mechanical components to
automatically deploy the blind into the anti-ballistic protection
mode based on the received threat data; and a user actuated device
configured to trigger the control system to deploy the blind into
the anti-ballistic protection mode when actuated.
[0014] The blinds provides an anti-entry function, such as a bullet
proof system characterized by light weight, high ballistic
resistant vanes, louvers or slats for application in a simple, yet
unconventional manner.
[0015] This summary is not an extensive overview of the features
and systems discussed herein. It is not intended to identify
key/critical elements or to delineate the scope of such features
and systems. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts in a
simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] The features and advantages of the example embodiments
described herein will become apparent to those skilled in the art
to which this disclosure relates upon reading the following
description, with reference to the accompanying drawings, which
show some of the example embodiments of the disclosed devices.
[0017] FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of one example embodiment of
a venetian blind system having horizontal slats;
[0018] FIG. 1A illustrates a front view of another example
embodiment of a venetian blind system having vertical slats;
[0019] FIG. 2 illustrates a detailed perspective view of an example
embodiment of the blind system;
[0020] FIG. 3 illustrates a detail view of a head box portion an
example embodiment blind system;
[0021] FIG. 4 illustrates an example control method for the blind
system;
[0022] FIG. 5 illustrates an alternative example embodiment of a
side view of the blind system;
[0023] FIG. 6 illustrates an alternative example embodiment of a
perspective view of the blind system;
[0024] FIG. 7 illustrates an example laminated structure for blind
slats that provide both decorative and anti-ballistic features;
[0025] FIG. 8 illustrates another example embodiment of a blind
system having blinds provided between panes of glass;
[0026] FIG. 9 illustrates another example embodiment of a blind
system adapted for automatic deployment with remote control;
[0027] FIG. 9A illustrates an example of interlocking slats for use
in various blind systems;
[0028] FIG. 10 illustrates an example embodiment of a vehicle shade
system for a vehicle;
[0029] FIG. 11 illustrates an example embodiment of a deployable
ballistic air bag system; and
[0030] FIG. 12 illustrates an example embodiment of an
anti-ballistic bead system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS
[0031] This application includes modifications and additional
alternatives to the bullet proof blinds disclosed in U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 14/476,206 filed on Sep. 3, 2014, and
incorporated herein by reference and substantially reproduced
herein below.
[0032] Referring to FIG. 1, an example embodiment of a blind system
is shown. The blind system 5 includes a plurality of members such
as slats, (also called louvers or vanes) 10 resting or hanging on
the rungs of one or more ladders 15, which are movably suspended
from a head, bottom or side rail 20, which may be mounted to a
window or door frame. The slats 10 could be of horizontal or
vertical orientation.
[0033] The slats could be formed having matching grooves or a
tongue and groove system to allow the slats to interlock or overlap
with each other in a more secure way to ensure better resistance to
ballistic intrusion, as described elsewhere herein.
[0034] The slats 10 can be of conventional construction but with
updated materials, and can be constructed of a number of different
materials having desirable properties, including, but not limited
to, the following materials: plastic, composites, wood, metal,
fabric, fiberglass or any other suitable anti-ballistic material
including, but not limited to, Kevlar.RTM. (which is a synthetic
fiber of high tensile strength comprised of poly-para-phenylene
terephthalamide) or Lexan.RTM. (which is a transparent
polycarbonate of high impact strength) or Lucite.RTM. (which is a
solid transparent plastic comprised of polymethyl methacrylate) or
DuPont.TM. Tensylon.RTM. (which is an ultrahigh molecular weight
polyethylene anti-ballistic material), or a plexiglass with
anti-ballistic properties, for example, or any combination thereof.
Other materials or combinations described elsewhere in this
document can also be used as an alternative or supplement these
materials.
[0035] In an example embodiment, the slats could be provided as a
laminate, such as steel or aluminum with a carbon fiber or tensylon
or fiber glass backing. Decorative layers or paints can be provided
for room esthetics. Also, fabric can be treated with boron to form
a ballistic resistant material. For example, a fabric can be dipped
into a boron solution, then heated in an oven at more than 1000 C,
which changes cotton fibers in the fabric into carbon fibers, such
that the carbon fibers react with the boron solution to produce
boron carbide.
[0036] The slats 10 could vary in shape, width, thickness, and/or
orientation to form blinds of various styles and construction, as
desired. The slats 10 can be made flat or curved across their
transverse dimension, they can be of any desired width or length or
thickness, and they could be provided of different dimensions, such
as, for example one, two, three, or four inches wide or any other
suitable width for the desired application. Rather than horizontal
slats, the slats may be arranged vertically, as shown elsewhere in
this document. The lengths of the slats for the various blind
designs can be varied according to the window or door size that
they are being utilized to protect, and they could be of a length
of a foot or more, up to 4 to 8 feet or more, as desired.
[0037] FIG. 1A, shows an arrangement of vertical blinds having a
valance 52 and vertical slats 54, shown with the slats partially
retracted. For vertical blinds, a rail 56 can be provided at the
base of the blinds to provide further structural strength to the
slats via connector 58, which comprise a tab or other structure
that is inserted into a slot in the rail 56 to avoid deformation of
the slats 54 during a protective function.
[0038] Turning to the operation of the blind system 5, the slats 10
can be tilted (e.g. by rotation) by a tilt mechanism 50 to let in
partial light, such as when a tilt wand or cord 25 is used to
adjust the slats 10. The slats 10 can also be lifted or collapsed
by a lift mechanism 100 (for example, to fold or accordion the
slats into a compact position) to let in full or nearly full light,
for example.
[0039] Referring to the example embodiment of FIG. 2, the slats 10
are suspended by the ladder 15 which is comprised of at least two
strips of cloth or string or tape 30 that allows the slats 10 to be
suspended in a manner such that all slats 10 in unison can be
rotated nearly 180 degrees, such as to go from an open condition
(state) to a closed (protective) condition (state). The tape 30 can
be made of any flexible material such as fabric, plastic, nylon,
polyester, or any flexible material or the like. The ladder 15
further comprises a connector tape 35 which connect the two strips
of tape 30 together. Rotating the tilt-cord 25 causes the slats 10
to rotate/tilt a longitudinal axis in order to open or close visual
access to the outside from inside the room in which the blinds are
installed.
[0040] As an alternative to rotation, in some embodiments the slats
may be opened and closed by sliding the slats or collapsing the
slats together, for example. And the entire blind may be retracted
toward the top (valence) structure or deployed as desired.
[0041] The slats 10 of the blind system 5 further comprise rods 45
routed through rod holes 40. In this example embodiment, each slat
10 comprises at least one rod hole 40. At least one steel rod 45
which is affixed to the head or bottom rail 20 runs through each
slat 10. The slats 10 could pivot about the steel rod 45 which is
encased in the slats 10. Pulling the lift-cord activates the lift
mechanism 100 causing either the bottom rail or the top rail to
rise, sequentially collecting the slats from the bottom up or the
top down and compressing the entire array of slats 10 against the
top-rail.
[0042] Turning to FIG. 3, the blind system 5 may include a rotator
member, or tube 60 provided for rotation of the rotator 60 within
an axis provided in the head box valance 70. The tilt cord 25 is
fixedly attached to the rotator 60 and hangs downwardly from the
head box.
[0043] In an example embodiment, the slats 10 may have a groove 65
and and/or tongue 68 that may run the length of the slats 10 to
interlock the slats together during deployment. While the
embodiment shows the groove runs the length of the slat, it is
appreciated that a groove-tongue system located at the edge of the
slat 10 may suffice. The groove 65 and tongue 68 allows slats 10 to
interlock when they are in a closed position for additional
strength. In another example embodiment, the slats 10 can have
fasteners that allow them interlock for additional strength. The
fasteners could engage with the window or door sill for added
strength, if desired. Or magnets or electromagnets might be used to
interlock the individual slats together. Another example of such a
tongue-and-groove interlocking approach is shown in FIG. 9A,
described below.
[0044] FIG. 4. Illustrates an example of a control system which may
be used by any of the embodiments described herein to control the
blind system 5. The control system can include a controller 202
with one or more sensors that form a sensor array 204 connected to
the controller 202, and a panic switch 206 connected to the
controller 202. The sensors may be pre-existing sensors in a home
defense system or conventional after-market sensors capable of
detecting ballistic signals such as sound (e.g., gun shots or
breaking glass), gun powder, gun impact, muzzle flash, temperature,
and the like. The sensors could be any of those typically used to
detect a break in, for example. The controller 202 is connected to
a user interface 210 whereby a user may activate and apply settings
to the blind system. The controller 202 is also connected to a
motor system 208 for actuating the blind system upon receiving
information indicating that a threat is present and that the blinds
should be closed (i.e., put into a protective state such as a
ballistic protection mode).
[0045] Where a building may already have a central control system
(e.g., a security or other alarm system), controller 202 may
utilize such a system by adding additional customized code for
operating the blinds system 5. In another example, the blinds could
also utilize ground sourced radar, infrared (heat), sonar, or some
other active or passive detection system. The sensor array 204 can
include one or more heat sensors, infrared sensors, video sensors,
audio sensors, smoke detectors, or other types of sensors, or may
utilize already existing sensors of a fire or burglar system, for
example. Any of the sensors in the sensor array 204, the panic
switch 206 or the user interface 210, or any combination of these
components, may be connected to the controller 202 in a wireless
manner, such as by WiFi or Bluetooth, for example, and the panic
switch and/or user interface could be implemented on a cell phone
or tablet computer, for example.
[0046] The system or any of its components may be controlled by any
external or internal system, such as one that may exist prior to
the installation of the blinds. For example, the blind system could
be tied to an external system such as an alarm system or video
cameras with analytics. The blind system could also be controlled
remotely via the internet or a WiFi or Bluetooth connection by any
connected device such as a tablet, computer, PDA, or a smartphone.
Blinds such as disclosed herein would be very useful in a panic
situation in a school or federal building. Such blinds could also
be used in a lock down situation to prevent people or valuables
from leaving the premises, for example. FIG. 9, described below,
shows an example embodiment of a remotely controllable system.
[0047] The blinds could be retrofitted to an existing building or
other structure, and adapted to tap into existing security or
burglar alarm systems, for example, or they could be added during
structure construction.
[0048] The blinds could also be adapted to sense the location of
the occupants of the building and close by according to
predetermined parameters such as direction of threat and the
location inside the building that would be the best to return fire
from. Blinds could also be controlled by facial recognition, video
analytics, or by the occupants' voice or any other suitable
biometrics, such as for recognizing an threatening person, such as
an ex-spouse, or ex-employee who has made threats or acted in a
threatening manner, or otherwise recognizing a wanted criminal or
an enemy soldier, for example. When the blind system 5 is
activated, the slats 10 may be configured to overlap each other to
form the interlocking pattern discussed above so as deflect
bullets, shells, or other ballistic weapons to prevent a fatal
impact and/or property damage. Such blinds can protect from thrown
objects as well, such as rocks, grenades, bricks, molotov
cocktails, etc. Blinds could be controlled individually or together
with a timing mechanism.
[0049] The blinds could be configured to protect against remote
monitoring of sound and conversation, such as by providing random
vibrations to the blind to avoid vibration detection by remote
monitoring devices, for example.
[0050] As an example use, the blind system may be provided in an
open state where the blinds are provided in an open condition
(e.g., with open slats) to allow viewing through the blinds, or the
blinds in a retracted position. The blind system sensor array would
detect a potential intruder or the sound of gunfire using visual,
auditory, or other sensed information. The system would then
automatically enter a protective state, such as by closing the
blinds (e.g., closing the slats) or deploying the blind (by
lowering it to cover the window), or both, to protect the interior
of the room from external entry of projectiles (e.g., bullets), for
example. Or the system may detect the entry of a ballistic
projectile (e.g., a bullet, rock, etc.), or threatening shouts or
yells, sirens, explosions, proximity of threatening individuals,
etc., in which case the blinds would be activated into a protective
mode.
[0051] In an alternate example embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5,
the blind system 105 can reside between two glass panes, such as
safety glass panes 135 for use in applications like automobiles,
airplanes, boats or other mobile applications. The blind system 135
may also be used in stationary applications like residential and
commercial applications. The safety glass panes can be made of any
lightweight glass material which is useful in an armored car to
reduce weight of the glass used which improves the fuel efficiency
of the vehicle.
[0052] In an example embodiment, the slats 110 used between the
safety glass panes 135 could be comprised of a composite or
laminate, such as fabric with a carbon fiber or tensylon or fiber
glass backing or other ballistic resilient backing.
[0053] In an example embodiment, the glass panes 135 could have a
layer of safety film 140 such as, for example, Cellulose acetate
film, 3M safety film, Armor guard films or the like for additional
protection. The safety film can be between 4 mil to 10 mil, for
example, although other thicknesses could be used. In another
example embodiment, the glass panes 135 could be made of fire glass
with a gel center such as manufactured by SAFTI First, for
example.
[0054] In an automobile application, the blind system 105 could be
controlled with safety in mind so that a driver does not lose all
drivability at once and improving the ability to evade. For
example, the blinds could have a small port hole for the driver of
the vehicle to see out of to allow the driver to continue to drive
toward a safer area, for example. Or the blinds could be comprised
of a transparent material with anti-ballistic properties, or a
material with anti-ballistic materials woven therein.
[0055] In use for mobile applications, such as in boats, or
airplanes or automobile, the blind system 105 could be configured
to tilt or close the blinds based on temperature, sound, threat,
geographic terrain, environmental conditions and any outer suitable
factors. For example, as a vehicle goes up a hill, the blinds can
be adapted to tilt so that air or light can get in and not
bullets.
[0056] The blind system 105 could also be fire rated to prevent
fire from spreading to the next room or structure through the use
of fire retardant or preventive materials, where the blinds can be
automatically closed when a fire is detected through monitoring of
temperature, light, or infrared, for example.
[0057] In another example embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, the
blind system 305 may have a roll up blind (e.g., window shade)
configuration that may utilize an anti-ballistic fabric material
310, for example, and that can be used as protective covering to
protect equipment such as, for example, a radiator, or a
ventilation system, or on an intake area of a jet engine, engine,
window, radiator, or gas tank of an automobile (or other vehicle),
or any other suitable protective covering applications. The roll-up
blind system 305 may be made of bullet resistant fabric such as
Kevlar or Lexan or DuPont.TM. Tensylon.RTM.. Other materials
described herein could also be used, as an alternative or to
supplement these materials. In such a system, the blind may be
comprised of a contiguous sheet of material, or patches of such
material, rather than slats.
[0058] In an alternate example embodiment to the slat blind system,
the roll up blind system 305 can reside between two glass panes,
such as safety glass panes 135 for use in applications like
automobiles, airplanes, boats or other mobile applications, as
shown in FIG. 5 or FIG. 8. Such a system might utilize a Kevlar
curtain that falls between windows panes, or even in front or
behind a single pane.
[0059] Any of the protective blinds described herein might also be
stored in a ceiling rather than a valance structure, and in some
cases bullet proof panels rather than blinds might be used, where
deployment in emergency situations means that the blinds drop from
the ceiling to provide ballistic protection.
[0060] The fabric blind 310 could also tilt or otherwise be
operated according to the threat or terrain. The fabric blind 310
could close from the top or bottom depending on the design of the
building or application. The fabric blind 310 could also run left
to right, for example. The blinds could also tilt according to the
threat or terrain. For example with vehicle application when the
blind is used as a radiator cover, as the vehicle goes up a hill
the radiator blinds tilt so air can get in and not bullets.
[0061] In an alternate example embodiment, the roll up blind system
305 may be used for windows, doors, entryways, or any other desired
application in a building or vehicle. The roll up blind system 305
could suspend from a rail 315 and that may be disposed within a
head box 320 (acting in concert at a valence) and may be weighed
down by bottom rail 325 to maintain its position and add structural
strength. The weight of the bottom rail can vary to match the
desired application, or it may be paired with a structure
enhancement such as through the use of electromagnets or a
structure secured to a sill or floor. A reel cord 330 may be used
to be roll up the blinds 310 or to roll down the blind 310. The
reel cord 330 may also be pneumatically or automatically driven,
such as by using a chain. The lengths of the blind 310 can be
varied according to the window or door size that they are being
utilized to protect, and they could be of a length for the desired
application.
[0062] Generally, any of the blind systems provided herein will
typically be provided with blinds that can be placed in an open
state at the request of a user to enable viewing through the
blinds, and/or to allow for airflow and/or light flow and/or other
flow through the blinds. Such blinds can also be closed at the
request of a user, in which case the blinds may also be in a
protective state. The blinds can also be provided in an
intermediate state, able to both provide some limited ballistic
protection and to let in a substantial amount of light. Upon
detection of a threatening condition, such as detection of a
gunshot or a flying projectile, or by activation of a panic button
or security system, blinds that are in an open state will be
transitioned into a closed, protective state to protect against
ballistic projectiles or other threatening materials.
[0063] In addition to the embodiments disclosed in the '206
application and described above, various forms of vertical blinds
based on concepts provided in that application are also provided.
Additional materials are also disclosed for constructing the blinds
in this and that application.
[0064] The use of a Kevlar fabric having expanding baffles between
the layers is one alternative in such blinds. By providing baffles
in the material, the material is enabled to expand in an outward
direction, which will help to absorb some of the energy provided by
a ballistic impact.
[0065] The fabric blinds could utilize horizontal or vertical
pleats or slats. Separate vanes or material can be provided to add
bullet proof functionality, such that existing blind designs, that
may have ornamental aspects, can be supported by a set of bullet
proof blinds placed underneath the current blind design. The blinds
would act in conjunction to open and close in a traditional manner,
with the added functionality of providing ballistic projectile
protection. Solenoids or motors, or electromagnets, or other
electrical or mechanical devices can be used to mechanically open
and close the blinds.
[0066] In some options, a bullet proof blind (that may be provided
behind or in front of a traditional blind or a as a full
replacement) may remain normally in a retracted or otherwise open
mode. The bullet proof portion of the blind may be hidden in a
valence of the blinds, for example, or be rotated or retracted in
an open position. The bullet proof material can be automatically
deployed, such that upon a triggering event (such as the detection
of a gunshot, or the triggering of a proximity alarm or other type
of burglar alarm, for example) the bullet proof (ballistic) blind
would then deploy, such as by dropping into place from a valance or
roof or ceiling, for example.
[0067] Such a dropping ballistic blind might be comprised of panels
or slats of ballistic material that are folded, overlapped, or
otherwise collapsed in the retracted position, or it may comprise a
roll of ballistic fabric that rolls to retract, and unrolls to
deploy to form a ballistic layer of protection. A weight may be
provided at the bottom of the roll to aid deployment (e.g.,
unrolling) and to help keep the material in place for stopping or
slowing the projectiles. Alternatively, some structure to increase
the strength of the deployed blind could be used, such as
electromagnets or electrical or mechanical latches at the base to
secure the deployed blind to the floor or window sill or wall or
other structure.
[0068] The blinds can be placed between layers of glass, for
example, which can be used in original installations or to retrofit
existing windows. The blinds may be used in conjunction with bullet
proof or bullet resistant glass. For example, blinds such as
disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,826,338 & 6,070,638, incorporated
herein by reference, could be modified using the materials
disclosed herein to add ballistic protection to such blinds.
Automatic deployment functions, as also described herein, could
also be provided.
[0069] FIG. 8 shows an example of ballistic blinds provided between
panes of glass, including slats 520 connected by center post 530
provided between a first pane 501 and a second pane 505 of glass,
with a bottom 540 and a valence 510 which may store the blinds in a
stowed position and main contain a mechanism to automatically drop
the blinds upon detection of a ballistic event. Alternatively, the
blinds may be permanently deployed but the slats rotated
automatically or manually.
[0070] In particular, vertical blinds (or shades) can be used to
provide bullet-proof protection, as described herein. Such blinds,
although they may use hanging panels, can still provide ballistic
projective protection by absorbing energy from a bullet or other
projectile. Such a device may be comprised of a plurality of panels
made of a ballistic material. Acceptable materials may include a
high-density polymer (e.g., polyethylene, Tensylon), ceramic, metal
(e.g., steel, titanium, and alloys thereof), aramid fiber (e.g.,
Kevlar), polycarbonate (e.g., Lexan), fiberglass (ArmorCore, see
www.armorcore.com), carbon fibers, and other carbon structures,
boron treated cloth, etc. and combinations thereof. Ballistic
cloths can be used for such panels, such as by laminating such
cloths, with or without other materials.
[0071] The blinds can be made with slats in more than one
thickness. For example, two different thicknesses including 1/4
inch or 1/2 inch thick slats may be provided. The blinds might have
slats with a width of 3 inches, among other widths, as desired. The
blinds can overlap (e.g., when closed) more for additional support
and protection, and may include structure to enhance structural
strength. Different types of cord for the panels to hang from,
including exotic fibers such as boron and composite fiber, can be
utilized. The blinds could fasten at the bottom or sides for
additional strength and stability.
[0072] As examples, slats made from ArmorCore can be provided of
dimensions 2''.times.36''.times.0.35'' (weight=1.9 lbs./slat) Slats
made from Tensylon can be provided of dimensions
2''.times.36''.times.0.23'' (Total weight=0.6 lbs./slat).
[0073] Shades can be provided that are of a uniform material that
don't use slats, but instead use one or more uniform layers of
ballistic material, which may or may not be laminated, and may even
be formed into panels or slats. Such shades can drop automatically,
as described herein for the blinds. The shades may be opaque
(blackout shades), or somewhat transparent (translucent) or totally
transparent, or otherwise have small or large gaps to let light
through, as desired. Multiple layers of material can be used in the
shades, and the shades may be used in combination with the blinds
to add extra protection. For example, the shade may automatically
deploy (drop) when a ballistic event is detected, while blinds may
automatically close (such as by rotating the slats).
[0074] FIG. 9 shows an example anti-ballistic window blind 600 that
is automatically deployable. The blind has a valance 620 for
housing any necessary gearing or other transmission mechanisms to
allow the motor 630 to deploy and retract the blind 610. The
valance 620 may be decorative in nature to be pleasing
aesthetically, or covered in a decorative cloth or covering.
Controller 640 may be wirelessly capable to communicate with an
external control unit 690, or a home defense system (such as an
anti-burglar system) by wire or wirelessly. A panic button 642
might also be provided to quickly deploy the blind. The individual
slats 611 are comprised of material to provide anti-ballistic
protection, as described in more detail above, and may have
decorative layers as well. Vibrator 650 may be provided to apply
vibration to the blinds to hamper audio detection systems.
[0075] A weight bar 615 can be used to weigh the blind 610 to aid
in deployment, if desired. If desired, this weight 615 can be made
of a magnetic material to be held in place by a magnet or
electromagnet 617 provided on a window sill or floor or wall, such
that the electromagnet is activated when a security situation is
detected or otherwise triggered to better secure the blind 610 in
place and improve its anti-ballistic performance. For power
outages, the electromagnet may be battery powered, and only
activated during as security event. Alternatively, a mechanical or
electrical latch could be used for this purpose.
[0076] Alternatively, rather than a motor, the drive system 630 may
utilize electromagnets or solenoids or pneumatic or hydraulic
devices to retract and/or release the blind. For example,
electromagnets may be used to hold the blind in a retracted
position, for deployment during a security event by powering down
the electromagnet when deactivated either by automated or manual
means (as described herein), or by power outage, in which case the
blinds, which can be weighted, can automatically deploy.
[0077] FIG. 9A shows a side view of an interlocking blind system
where the slats 690 have grooves 694 and matching tongues 692 that
allow adjacent slats to interlock with each other to add additional
strength to the overall blind. Alternative structures could be used
for similar purposes, such as tabs and slots, or curved edges, or
even electromagnets.
[0078] FIG. 11 shows a protection system 700 that uses a deployable
airbag 720 that is comprised of anti-ballistic materials, such as
described herein. This airbag 720 can be provided between panes of
glass 710, 712, for example, and can be inflated using a pump or
air tank 730 with a valve 732 for sealing the air bag. When
retracted, the deflated bag may reside near the top of the
structure, perhaps hidden from view. A control system 740 can be
provided, such as to wirelessly connect to a home defense control
system or a remote control, for example.
[0079] FIG. 12 shows a protection system 800 that uses deployable
beads 820 that are comprised of anti-ballistic materials, such as
described herein. This system can be provided to deploy bead
between panes of glass 810, 812, for example, and can be inflated
using a bead storage tank 830 with a valve 832 for releasing the
beads or pumping them in place. A control system 840 can be
provided, such as to wirelessly connect to a home defense control
system or a remote control, for example.
[0080] Note that for some applications, the beads may be deployed
permanently between the panes of glass, or anywhere else that
ballistic protection is desired, including in hard-to-reach areas
such as in doors or walls. The beads may be small and light enough
to be deployed by using a pump or fan to blow the beads in place,
and/or to remove them.
[0081] The beads can be comprised of any of the materials described
herein, including ceramic materials or carbon fiber materials which
may be particularly applicable for this purpose.
[0082] The blinds or shades can be utilized in automotive
applications, such as currently blinds that are provided in some
vehicles, such as in limousines or luxury vehicles, for example.
FIG. 10 shows an example style of blind that can be used in an
automobile, which could be constructed of ballistic material. The
blind is shown in retracted mode 610, and partially deployed mode
620. The bullet proof vehicle blinds can be provided on the inside
of glass, mounted using mounting hardware valance 630 with bullet
proof material sheet 640, or the blind could reside between layers
of safety glass (e.g., in automobiles) or each layer of glass can
have a layer of safety film on them such as, for example, 4-10
mil.
[0083] The blind could be deployed in a manner similar to that
discussed above with respect to other blinds, and these vehicle
blinds might also have adjustable blades/louvers, which can have a
groove that runs the length of the louver. This groove or notch can
allow the louvers to interlock for additional strength. With either
the home/commercial application or the automotive application the
blinds can be electronic and close automatically when gunfire is
sensed. The front windshield one could close partially or slowly
according to the speed of the vehicle. The blinds could have
fasteners that allow them to interlock. The blinds could also
engage with the window sill for added strength. There could also be
2 or more layers of blinds depending on the threat. This would also
allow light in but keep bullets out.
[0084] Such blinds may be deployed in school buses, public
transportation (busses, trains, trolleys, taxis, even planes, for
example) to protect children or other members of the public in
battlefield areas or in dangerous cities or sections of cities, for
example. Schools and other public buildings could be provided with
such blinds, for example.
[0085] The blinds could be used to retrofit existing vehicle blinds
that do not have bullet-proof or other ballistic features, or they
could be installed as original equipment or as after-market
add-ons.
[0086] The vehicle blinds could be configured to vibrate at a
random or constant rate, as described above, to prevent an
interferometers or vibration sensing listening devices from working
through the blinds, avoiding eavesdropping or other spying
activities. Vibration can be applied to the blinds through use of
motors or piezo devices in a manner known in the art to create
vibrations. Such blinds may be ideal for board rooms or military
planning rooms to avoid spying operations.
[0087] Note that blinds that are constructed of ceramic or
composite ballistic material can be much lighter and cheaper to
build than blinds that use metallic materials, such as steel, for
example, and they could prove flexible and more deployable and
retractable.
[0088] Blinds using fabric and/or panels held together by fabric
can be utilized. Also having blinds in a horizontal or vertical
position. Closing and opening from all possible sides can be
provided, e.g., from the top or bottom or left or right. Also a
combination of these approaches can be used. Blinds could close
from both sides. Or close from the top and bottom where each blind
half covers half of a particular window.
[0089] Roll down fabric blinds using ballistic materials that come
down from the top, such as that can be quickly deployed can prove
useful. Also panels that fold down from the top can be
utilized.
[0090] Ballistic resistant panels can be provided with the
ballistic material provided on back of an ornamental design (e.g.,
wooden slats), or between ornamental designs, so that the blinds
provide traditional ornamental aesthetics. The ballistic materials
may be woven into a layered cloth that can be attached, glued, or
otherwise combined with the ornamental panels to achieve the
desired effect. A string or rope made of the ballistic material can
be used to replace the string/rope that may be utilized in existing
blind applications.
[0091] For example, FIG. 7 shows a side view of a laminated slat
400 having ballistic layer 420 sandwiched between decorative layers
410 and 430. As an example, layers 410, 430 could be a single layer
of fabric surrounding a ballistic panel as layer 420. Or ballistic
layer 420 might comprise a ballistic fabric, making the entire slat
of layers of fabric. Hence, part of the blind, such as
louvers/slats, can be made in this laminated manner to provide both
decorative and anti-ballistic features. The layers could be glued
together, or bonded in some other manner, such as by heating them
to weld them together.
[0092] For vertical blinds such as shown in FIG. 1A, the blind
panels from a support structure, and they can be pulled to a side
horizontally to open the blinds. The slats may also be rotated to
open the blind to light, or to block the light or provide privacy,
such as at night. Such a system may be automatically deployed
(i.e., closed) by both extending the blind, and/or rotating the
slats closed, depending on the current state of deployment, to
provide ballistic protection when a threatening event is detected,
as discussed above.
[0093] Ballistic blinds might also be arranged in a manner similar
to drapes, where ballistic fabric is used to form the bullet proof
drapes. In this case, the drapes can be deployed in a manner
similar to fabric drapes. Vertical slats can be used in such
approaches as well, where the slats fold together when the "drapes"
are withdrawn (opened), and unfold when the "drapes" are deployed
(closed).
[0094] Many other example embodiments can be provided through
various combinations of the above described features. Although the
embodiments described hereinabove use specific examples and
alternatives, it will be understood by those skilled in the art
that various additional alternatives may be used and equivalents
may be substituted for elements and/or steps described herein,
without necessarily deviating from the intended scope of the
application. Modifications may be necessary to adapt the
embodiments to a particular situation or to particular needs
without departing from the intended scope of the application. It is
intended that the application not be limited to the particular
example implementations and example embodiments described herein,
but that the claims be given their broadest reasonable
interpretation to cover all novel and non-obvious embodiments,
literal or equivalent, disclosed or not, covered thereby.
* * * * *
References